Hollande boots out energy minister after budget complaint

France’s President François Hollande has booted out his energy minister (pictured, right) after she criticised cuts to her department’s budget.

The nation is in the midst of chopping out €14billion worth of public spending and the swift sacking suggests little criticism will be tolerated from ministers.

Delphine Batho spoke out against the 7% cut to the Environment Ministry’s budget, telling a French radio station it was a “bad budget” and arguing in favour of environmental taxes instead, reported Reuters.

Her replacement as Minister for Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy, Philippe Martin took over yesterday (pictured).

The changeover comes as France’s nationwide ban on leaving unnecessary lighting switched on at night kicked in on Monday. If building operators breach the rule they could be fined €750 for each offence.